Legacy is a 1987 novel by American author James A. Michener that uses the real-world Iran-Contra affair as a backdrop for an exploration of American history and the U.S. Constitution through the lens of one family's heritage. The novel is a short, personal work, unlike his usual lengthy historical sagas.
Synopsis
The story centers on Major Norman Starr, an Army officer on the National Security Council, who is ordered to appear before a congressional committee to account for his involvement in covert military actions in Nicaragua.
Over the weekend before his testimony, Major Starr and his lawyer reflect on his family's long and complex history in the United States, spanning from the nation's founding to the 20th century. These reflections, presented as historical "flashbacks" or vignettes, serve as the novel's core, examining how different ancestors navigated crucial moments in American history and their relationship with the Constitution.
Ancestors featured include:
A Revolutionary War veteran and an influential participant in the debates leading up to the Constitutional Convention.
A slave owner who later questions the morality of the practice.
A Supreme Court justice.
A courageous suffragist who fought for women's voting rights.
Through these stories, Starr seeks guidance on whether to testify or invoke his right to silence (take the Fifth Amendment), ultimately making a personal decision based on his understanding of his family's legacy and the enduring principles of the Constitution.
Key Themes
The U.S. Constitution: The novel is a "paean" to the U.S. Constitution, published during its bicentennial, and includes the full text of the document as an appendix. It explores the "living Constitution" and its interpretation over time.
Patriotism and Duty: Michener explores the complexities of patriotism and the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals who must reconcile their personal actions with their national identity and heritage.
Family Heritage: The novel emphasizes the idea of a "legacy" passed down through generations, showcasing the triumphs and tragedies of one family and their dynamic role in shaping American history.
Ethics and Integrity: The central ethical question is whether Major Starr should use his family's history of patriotism to justify his actions and protect himself, or if his heritage demands a different path of accountability.